Chris J

Senior Associate | PwC

I began my journey in the legal profession with work experiences at a family law firm during my GCSEs. However, due to lower than expected A Level results I became disillusioned with my prospects of achieving a successful legal career, especially as I was not going to a “top” university and I had no contacts in the industry. Nevertheless, I was on course to achieve a 2:1 at university – studying history – and so decided to apply for work experiences and vacation schemes in my third year. I received no positive responses, and so taking up a place at BPP University on the GDL was a gamble. I applied once again during the GDL and secured two vacation schemes, gaining two training contract offers and a distinction in my GDL. I then accepted PwC’s offer and completed my LPC before starting as a trainee solicitor at PwC UK in September 2017.

I am now a second seat trainee sitting in the Corporate IF100 team, having completed my first seat in the Pensions team. I believe that my hard work paid off despite my schooling, earlier grades, non-Russell Group University studies and Geordie accent. Diversity is important to allow fresh ideas, but most importantly to create an empathetic and flexible workforce that is aware of how different client and colleagues’ needs can be. I would like to help any students who feel they may not be smart enough.